Weather in Phuket in August

How August compares

August is the 8th warmest month of the year in Phuket and ranks 78th of 134 destinations we compare for August - see where else is hot in August. Within Thailand it is 6th of 6 (Thailand in August). Against London's average high of 21.4°C in August, Phuket is 6.9°C warmer by day and 12.5°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in August

The typical August day in Phuket peaks at 28.3°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 29.2°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and 1 in 22 pass 30°C. Nights average 26.0°C; one night in ten drops to 25.0°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest August day here reached 31.7°C (2018-08-15) and the coldest night 23.3°C (2017-08-15).

Rain in August

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 24 days with 1 mm or more, 264 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest August was 1995 with 445 mm, the driest 2020 with 115 mm. Humidity averages 82%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in August

The sea averages 29.1°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 28.7°C to 29.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in April (30.2°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 1.8 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.3 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:20 and sets about 18:42 local time in mid-August. Average cloud cover is 86%.

Is August a good time to visit Phuket?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Phuket on our scoring are February, January, March; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Warm days, humid air and little overnight cooling

The heat is steady rather than extreme: daytime temperatures average 28°C, while only 4% of days reach 30°C. That does not necessarily make it comfortable for long periods outdoors, because humidity averages 82%. Light, loose clothing makes more sense than heavy fabrics, and it is sensible to keep demanding outdoor plans away from midday. Nights average 26°C, so evenings offer little relief from the warmth; accommodation with air conditioning is a practical choice if heat affects your sleep. Pack mainly for hot weather, with a lightweight waterproof layer rather than a heavy raincoat that could feel uncomfortable in the humid air.

Frequent rain is the main compromise

With about 24 rainy days, August is not a strong choice if your holiday depends on spending most days outside. Sunshine averages just 1.8 hours across 12.3 hours of daylight, so long daylight hours should not be confused with long sunny spells. Rain need not last all day, but it is sensible to leave room to change plans rather than rely on a fixed outdoor schedule. Keep belongings protected from rain and choose clothing that dries easily. The sea offers warmth rather than a cooling dip, at around 29°C. That temperature is suitable for swimming, but it does not tell you whether conditions are safe: follow local warnings before entering the water.